Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for summer grilling. Marinated in a zesty blend of lime, tequila, and orange flavors, these shrimp skewers are juicy, slightly smoky, and bursting with a citrusy punch. They make a fantastic appetizer or main course that’s both quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress at any gathering.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (large, peeled and deveined)fresh lime juiceorange juicesilver tequilahoneyolive oilgarlic cloves (minced)chili powdercuminpaprikasaltfreshly ground black pepperlime wedges (for serving)fresh cilantro (for garnish)wooden or metal skewers

directions

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using.

In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, tequila, honey, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Add shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.

Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers.

Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and slightly charred.

Remove from grill, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 20-30 minutesGrilling time: 5-6 minutesTotal time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Swap tequila for a splash of white wine for an alcohol-free version.

Add chunks of pineapple, bell peppers, or red onion to the skewers for extra flavor and color.

Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper smoky taste.

Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Reheat gently on a grill or stovetop over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side to avoid overcooking.Microwaving is not recommended, as it may make the shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.

Do I have to use tequila?

No, you can substitute with chicken broth or leave it out for a family-friendly version.

Can I cook these in the oven?

Yes, broil them on high for about 2-3 minutes per side.

How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Grill over high heat and watch closely; shrimp cook very quickly.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

Do I need to devein the shrimp?

It’s recommended for the best texture and taste.

Can I grill them without skewers?

Yes, use a grill basket if you prefer not to skewer.

What size shrimp is best?

Large (16/20 count) shrimp work best for grilling.

Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

Absolutely, peppers, onions, and zucchini pair well.

Are these skewers spicy?

They have a mild spice; adjust the chili powder to taste.

Conclusion

Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers bring the lively flavors of a classic margarita into a delicious and easy-to-make dish. Whether for a backyard barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers deliver a perfect combination of zest, sweetness, and smoky grill marks that will have everyone coming back for more. Give them a try and bring a taste of summer to your table!